Self belief sky high for rising star Joao Fonseca: "My dream will always be to be Number 1 and win Wimbledon, I can get there"

After producing some of the best tennis of his career over the past week, rising tennis star Joao Fonseca has revealed his aspirations of lifting the Wimbledon singles title and becoming World No.1.

The Brazilian youngster, spurred by the support of the home fans, reached the quarterfinals of the 2024 Rio Open. After making his rounds on the Challenger tour, the 17-year old defied all odds by reaching the final eight in Rio. Fonseca upset Next Gen star Arthur Fils and Chilean Christian Garin en route to his best performance on the the ATP Tour.

Despite losing in the quarterfinals, the Rio native seemed elated at his great form, and spoke about how he hoped to make his dreams of winning the prestigious Wimbledon title a reality.

“My dream will always be to be number 1 and win Wimbledon, mainly, but to win a Grand Slam," said Fonseca. "I know I can get there. It's a matter of work and dedication. I know the road is very long. Very long indeed. And it is with your feet on the ground that dreams become reality. If you don't believe in yourself, who will?"

After his historic campaign at the Rio Open, João Fonseca had a hard time adapting to the terrible conditions on the center court where the Chile Open is being held and was beaten by Argentinian Thiago Tirante, ranked 100th in the ATP, 2 sets to 0 with 7/5 7/6 (7/3) after 2 hours of play.